Dentures: Full, Hybrid, and Partial Prostheses
Dentures provide options for patients who are missing some or all of the teeth in the jawline. Depending on the number of teeth missing, the patient may need a full, hybrid or partial prosthesis.
Full Prostheses
A full prosthesis is the best solution for patients who are missing all of their teeth. The result is a natural look and feel and the restoration of the ability to speak and eat. Dentures from full prostheses are not anchored and sit directly atop the gums, with fixation ensured by pressure and vacuum effects (like a suction cup). They are stabilised through the jaw musculature, tongue and cheeks, and support the lips and facial expressions. Such a gum-supported prosthesis actually holds firmer in the upper jaw than in the lower jaw, since the hold in the lower jaw results more from pressure effects than from vacuum effects and the surface area there is also very small, making the device easier to dislodge. In these cases anchoring lower-jaw dentures with implants is recommended to increase the patient's everyday comfort.
Hybrid Prostheses
Hybrid prostheses use anchoring elements to give patients more stability and hold. Dental implants and/or natural root systems are examples of how these prostheses may be anchored. A snap-in mechanism is used to insert and hold the prosthesis in place. Root-treated teeth are prepared such that a holding element is placed on a root cap.
Partial Prostheses
Partial prostheses are recommended when some teeth are still present. They provide a comfortable, affordable alternative to fixed dentures. Their hold and stability typically rely on cast brackets mounted onto selected anchor teeth. The biggest advantage of partial prostheses is that they are easy to expand.
Follow-up Care, Fittings, and Tunings
Dentures are considered a major lifestyle change and are thus not for everyone. Patients receiving prostheses will need a great deal of time and patience as they adjust to their new teeth. In addition to the emotional adjustment, the dentures themselves may be uncomfortable at first and require adjustment by our staff to correct any pressure points. Contact us if your dentures become uncomfortable or you think they need adjustment. Do not attempt to adjust them yourself; each re-fitting should only be done by a qualified professional. We will support our patients every step of the way until the right fit is found.
It is also possible that prostheses may lose their fit with time, since the jaw bone is prone to changes where natural teeth are missing. As a result, prostheses must be tuned regularly by a dental professional. In a detailed consultation we will discuss with you which prosthesis is the best choice. It is important that you feel comfortable wearing them, caring for them, and that you can afford them. Call us at your convenience to schedule an appointment with our family dental practice in the heart of Baar.
